Job Description

Under general supervision of the Shift Commander or Communications supervisor, performs working level complex work involving the use of a computer and radio equipment to dispatch emergency personnel.

Example of Duties

DUTIES (Any one position does not include all of the duties listed; nor do the listed examples include all duties which may be found in positions of this class). Performs 911 dispatcher duties in a stressful environment where multiple emergency situations occur simultaneously. Receives and screens telephone requests for emergency and non-emergency services; receives and transmits emergency radio messages and non-emergency service messages. Prioritizes calls; maintains complete status and record of each emergency. Receives, transmits and records telephone calls, signals, and messages related to police, fire, and medical emergencies using various communication equipment. Dispatches proper emergency personnel and equipment to appropriate locations. Monitors location, status, and needs of police, fire, medical and other emergency personnel via radio, telephone, computer, logs and other means of communication; maintains complete and accurate field unit status. Receives complaints from the public concerning crimes, accidents, and other emergencies; obtains information regarding priority and details of requests/complaints; directs and broadcasts information to appropriate emergency response units. Relays instructions or questions from broadcasts and complaints received; coordinates law enforcement, fire, medical and other emergency requests. Provides emergency medical assistance to the public via telephone. Provides assistance to callers with medical emergencies complying with emergency medical dispatch protocols and conveying pre-arrival instructions. Communicates with a variety of emergency and non-emergency units, including law enforcement, fire, emergency medical units, hospitals and other related units following proper protocols. Writes complaint reports when requested by Communications Supervisor. Participates in drills and exercises for specialized emergencies. Operates the following communications equipment: enhanced equipment associated with the 911 public safety answering point (PSAP); multi-channel radio transmitters and receivers; multi-channel fire alerting system; computer-assisted dispatch (CAD) system; satellite phone; paging system; telephone and mobile mapping system; computer terminals; multiple line telephone system; 911 emergency system; TTY or relay system to communicate with the hearing impaired. Operates two or more communication systems simultaneously. Reports equipment malfunctions in a timely manner. Operates a motor vehicle in a safe manner and in compliance with all Utah laws and regulations. Performs related duties as assigned.

Education and Experience

Education and Experience:

Dispatcher I: High school graduation (or equivalent). Preference given for public safety (911 communication center using computer-aided dispatch system) dispatcher work experience or related certifications.

Dispatcher II: High school graduation (or equivalent) plus two (2) years of continuous full-time public safety (911 communication center using computer-aided dispatch system) dispatcher work experience.

Career Ladder: This position is part of a career ladder job series. An incumbent in this classification may be eligible for career ladder advancement to Dispatcher II on his or her eligibility date after meeting the minimum requirements for the position and upon supervisor’s recommendation and Administrative Officer concurrence.

Must pass the Davis County Sheriff’s Office (DCSO) background investigation. As part of the background investigation, the DCSO requests that all applicants submit to a pre-employment polygraph examination. Employees driving a personal or a County vehicle for job related travel must possess a valid driver license and must operate a motor vehicle in a safe manner; new employees with an out-of-state license must obtain a valid Utah Driver License within sixty (60) days of hire date (exceptions for military personnel and their dependents). Employees driving a personal vehicle while on county business must maintain the minimum vehicle liability insurance as specified in the Utah Code.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Working knowledge of: geographical areas served; UCJIS, NCIC, and BCI regulations; Communication Center operations, policies, procedures and practices; emergency communication equipment and terminology; the operation of a dual radio and multiple line telephone system, the Federal Communications rules and regulation, computer operations. Skill in: operating all emergency communication equipment; performing accurate data entry; performing multiple tasks and using emergency communication equipment simultaneously; reading maps. This position may require the driving of a motor vehicle; skill in operating a motor vehicle in a safe manner; ability to insure motor vehicle is operating in a safe manner; knowledge of Utah motor vehicle rules and regulations. Ability to: work under stressful conditions; respond appropriately and professionally to verbally abusive, uncooperative, or frightened callers; perform multiple tasks simultaneously with frequent interruptions; speak distinctly; distinguish and give address accurate directions; hear and distinguish multiple levels of sounds and tones while listening to audio communications; maintain alertness and composure during emergency situations; solve problems and prioritize emergency requests rapidly; understand and comply with all applicable protocols; perform multiple tasks simultaneously; work rotating shifts including evenings, weekends and holidays; work 8-, 10-, or 12-hour shifts based on the needs of the Communications Center; sit for extended periods of time; read and interpret maps; lift, push, pull, or carry, objects weighing up to 20 lbs.; follow written and oral instructions; communicate clearly and concisely with callers and staff; establish and maintain effective working relationships with other employees, other agencies, and the general public.

Important Information

Davis County is a drug-free workplace. All successful applicants for positions in the County must successfully pass a drug screen prior to employment. Benefits include medical/dental/life insurance, vacation/sick leave, paid holidays, retirement plan, and 401(k) match. Must pass Dispatcher Examination.